Is ADD similar to ADHD?
Is ADD similar to ADHD?
ADD is a type of ADHD that doesn’t involve constant movement and fidgeting. But it’s a blurry distinction. The confusion dates to 1994. That’s when doctors decided all forms of attention-deficit disorder would be called “attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder,” even if the person wasn’t hyperactive.
Why do some kids get misdiagnosed with ADHD?
Children who are young for their grade levels may receive an inaccurate diagnosis because teachers mistake their normal immaturity for ADHD. Children who, in fact, have higher levels of intelligence than their peers may also be misdiagnosed because they grow bored in classes that they feel are too easy.
Is ADHD an overdiagnosed condition?
Most evidence these days point to the fact that ADHD is overdiagnosed – especially among children and teenage boys. What many people fail to realize is that many children experience attention deficits and engage in hyperactive, impulsive behavior naturally. It is pretty normal for kids to engage in this type of behavior.
Why is it so important to diagnose ADHD?
The goal of diagnosis and treatment is to help you be more effective in your day-to-day life and reduce the extent to which your untreated ADHD interferes with getting things done and your happiness. Without this deeper understanding that comes from an accurate diagnosis, you are likely to keep trying the same old strategies that probably won’t work as well as more targeted strategies would.
Who is able to diagnose someone with ADHD?
Attention deficit disorder (ADHD or ADD) can be diagnosed by a psychiatrist, a psychologist, a pediatrician or family doctor, a nurse practitioner, a neurologist, a master level counselor, or a social worker. Choosing the appropriate professional to conduct an ADHD diagnosis – and oversee the subsequent treatment – can be difficult, and confusing. Each specialty has its strengths and weaknesses to consider.